Clock moving.
Like Piano moving, can be a task better left to professionals. Now I'm referring to the large Hall and Floor Clocks we all call 'Grandfather', but there are some clocks that hang on the wall that are particularly sensitive, and some table clocks too.
If your clock requires a service, and you feel it should not be moved, definitely tell your friendly neighbourhood horologist and they will likely arrange a house call.
If you wish to bring a clock in for service, there are several things you should keep in mind.
Firstly, remove the pendulum if it has one, as they tend to knock around quite a bit during travel and will damage the clock quite easily.
Secondly, remove the weights if they have any, and the same logic applies.
400 day clocks, otherwise known as Anniversary clocks, need to have their torsion pendulums locked down before you move them any distance at all. The thin suspension spring is very easily damaged, as are the teeth on the tiny escape wheel. Most of the Anniversary clocks have a lock feature, and if they don't, that means they were produced in the frantic last years of the 400 day clock boom, and likely don't have levelling feet either. These clocks, I am sorry to say, (with rare exceptions) really aren't worth repairing.
Atmos clocks also fall into this category, they are extremely sensitive and need to have their disc pendulums locked before transport. If you are unsure of how to do this, do not move the clock without getting some advice or professional help. These clocks are very expensive, and require delicate handling. (In addition, the overhaul of an Atmos clock is likewise expensive)
Clocks with long and heavy suspensions, like Vienna Regulators, need to have weights removed, pendulums removed, and the suspension carefully taped down in the centre to avoid damage during transport. Green masking tape works well for this.
Clocks with mercury pendulums are a special breed- they require not only careful handling, but their hazardous contents dictate they need careful inspection for leaks and should be kept upright at all times. If you spill or break the mercury free from such a pendulum, there are hazardous spill procedures listed online, and depending on the amount spilled (Some clocks contain 4- 8 lbs of mercury) you may be required by law to contact the local Fire Department.
Keep in mind the danger here is from evaporation of the mercury, which is then inhaled. Mercury will evaporate even at room temperature, so follow the procedures and ventilate the area for large spills.
So definitely remove your weights and pendulum, or call and see if a house call is in order for your cherished timepiece.
Ticking right along as usual……..
R
Like Piano moving, can be a task better left to professionals. Now I'm referring to the large Hall and Floor Clocks we all call 'Grandfather', but there are some clocks that hang on the wall that are particularly sensitive, and some table clocks too.
If your clock requires a service, and you feel it should not be moved, definitely tell your friendly neighbourhood horologist and they will likely arrange a house call.
If you wish to bring a clock in for service, there are several things you should keep in mind.
Firstly, remove the pendulum if it has one, as they tend to knock around quite a bit during travel and will damage the clock quite easily.
Secondly, remove the weights if they have any, and the same logic applies.
400 day clocks, otherwise known as Anniversary clocks, need to have their torsion pendulums locked down before you move them any distance at all. The thin suspension spring is very easily damaged, as are the teeth on the tiny escape wheel. Most of the Anniversary clocks have a lock feature, and if they don't, that means they were produced in the frantic last years of the 400 day clock boom, and likely don't have levelling feet either. These clocks, I am sorry to say, (with rare exceptions) really aren't worth repairing.
Atmos clocks also fall into this category, they are extremely sensitive and need to have their disc pendulums locked before transport. If you are unsure of how to do this, do not move the clock without getting some advice or professional help. These clocks are very expensive, and require delicate handling. (In addition, the overhaul of an Atmos clock is likewise expensive)
Clocks with long and heavy suspensions, like Vienna Regulators, need to have weights removed, pendulums removed, and the suspension carefully taped down in the centre to avoid damage during transport. Green masking tape works well for this.
Clocks with mercury pendulums are a special breed- they require not only careful handling, but their hazardous contents dictate they need careful inspection for leaks and should be kept upright at all times. If you spill or break the mercury free from such a pendulum, there are hazardous spill procedures listed online, and depending on the amount spilled (Some clocks contain 4- 8 lbs of mercury) you may be required by law to contact the local Fire Department.
Keep in mind the danger here is from evaporation of the mercury, which is then inhaled. Mercury will evaporate even at room temperature, so follow the procedures and ventilate the area for large spills.
So definitely remove your weights and pendulum, or call and see if a house call is in order for your cherished timepiece.
Ticking right along as usual……..
R
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